The immigrant workers who refused to pay rent in 1970s France

In the 1970s, thousands of immigrant workers living in "foyers" or workers' hostels across France stopped paying rent. They were protesting against rent hikes and living conditions in the foyers, known for their tiny box rooms and substandard conditions, and against the racism of the housing management companies. The strike mainly took place in foyers run by Sonacotra, formerly Sonacotral: the National company for the construction of housing for Algerian workers. The strike lasted some five years, from around 1975 to 1980. Estimates vary, but at least 20,000 residents are thought to have taken part at...